How does a graduated pipette compare in accuracy to a volumetric pipette?

A graduated pipette is indeed less accurate than a volumetric pipette. The primary function of a volumetric pipette is to measure a specific volume of liquid with a high degree of precision. This is achieved because volumetric pipettes are designed to hold a fixed volume and have a wider cross-section, allowing for more accurate meniscus reading.

In contrast, graduated pipettes, while versatile and able to measure various volumes, are marked with a scale that may introduce some degree of uncertainty due to the multiple graduation marks and the need for careful reading. The potential for parallax error when reading measurements can also reduce accuracy.

Thus, when precision is critical, a volumetric pipette is preferred for applications requiring exact measurements, making it superior in accuracy compared to a graduated pipette. This understanding is key in laboratory settings where accurate measurement is essential for experimental integrity and reproducibility.